Image processing apparatus and image processing method

Abstract

Disclosed herein are an image processing apparatus and an image processing method for realistically expressing an object. The image processing apparatus includes a volume data generator configured to generate volume data using received signals of an object, and a volume rendering unit configured to perform volume rendering using the volume data to acquire a projection image, and apply a subsurface scattering effect according to virtual lighting information, to the projection image with respect to a user's viewpoint to produce a final image.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2013-0149880, filed on Dec. 4, 2013 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Technical Field[0003]Apparatuses and methods consistent with exemplary embodiments relate to an image processing apparatus and an image processing method for realistically expressing an object.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]Along with an ever growing interest in health, studies about medical imaging apparatuses are actively conducted. Medical imaging apparatuses may include, for example, an X-ray imaging apparatus, a fluoroscopy system, a Computerized Tomography (CT) scanner, a Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI) apparatus, Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and an ultrasonic imaging apparatus.[0006]The medical imaging apparatuses may display a 2-Dimensional (2D) medical image or a 3-Dime...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present disclosure provides an image processing apparatus and method for realistically expressing an object. The apparatus includes a volume data generator and a volume rendering unit that use virtual lighting information to create a final image with a subsurface scattering effect. The virtual lighting information includes an illumination model and the location of the virtual lighting. The apparatus calculates attenuation constants for each pixel of the final image using attenuation constant graphs acquired from sum-of-Gaussian functions. The attenuation constants are applied to the color values of each pixel to produce the final image. The virtual lighting information and attenuation constants are determined based on the distance between the first surface point and the second surface point that correspond to the pixel. The final image is produced by detecting the first surface point and the second surface point, and calculating the distance between them. The apparatus can include a first surface point detector and a second surface point detector to irradiate the volume data from different viewpoints and detect the corresponding surface points. The attenuation constants can be determined for R, G, and B channels, and different weights can be applied to the Gaussian functions. The technical effect of the invention is to create a realistic and visually appealing image that incorporates the subsurface scattering effect.

Problems solved by technology

Recently, color images are widely used because black-and-white images are considered to have a limitation in replicating a realistic expression of the target object element that is subject to imaging.

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